Savory Truffle Bacon Mac

A rich and creamy single-serving mac and cheese, elevated with a touch of truffle oil and crispy bacon, perfect for an indulgent treat.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 25 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Begin by boiling 4 oz of elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water. Cook until al dente, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Drain the pasta, but reserve a tablespoon of pasta water in case you need it later to perfect the sauce's consistency.
2. 2.
   While the pasta is cooking, prepare the bacon. Cook 2 slices in a pan over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease, then crumble it into small pieces. This adds a crunchy texture to the dish, enhancing the overall eating experience.
3. 3.
   In the same pot used for the pasta, return it to medium-low heat and pour in 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Stir occasionally until the cream begins to steam. Slowly add the 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth. If the sauce is too thick, incorporate the reserved pasta water, a teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
4. 4.
   Add the drained macaroni back into the pot, ensuring the cheese sauce evenly coats every piece. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of truffle oil over the macaroni and gently fold it into the mix. The truffle oil not only infuses the dish with an earthy aroma but also elevates the flavor profile significantly.
5. 5.
   Finally, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the mac and cheese. Gently stir the bacon into the dish, distributing it evenly to ensure every spoonful has that delightful hint of smokiness. If the cheese sauce seems to separate, continue to stir on low heat until it comes together again. Serve hot, and enjoy the luxurious taste of truffle combined with classic American comfort.